In coming up with this months recipe, I wanted to redo the classic truffle. Since my day job is a sports dietitian for the University of the Pacific, I created these with a post-workout snack in mind. Chocolate, protein powder, dates, and nuts come together to make this delicious, gluten-free treat.

With just the right balance of carbohydrates and protein, a few of these balls make the perfect recovery snack.

In a food processor, chop the dates. Add the water or the orange juice and pulse a few times to combine. Add the cocoa powder, peanut butter and blend together. Slowly add the flax seed and protein powder until just combined. Add the syrup and pulse a few more times.

Remove the mixture and refrigerate for 1-2 hours. Roll into a small ball and then roll in the crushed walnuts. Freeze until ready to eat.

I am going to enter these in my WW account to see the calories. They sound so good!

http://graincrazy.blogspot.com Grain Crazy

We love making these little protein balls! I like that you call them truffles, though, and roll them in walnuts. That makes them sound even more like a treat!

http://www.godfoodrun.blogspot.com JeJe

Wow! This would make a great work-out snack!!!

http://www.eastewart.com ea-the spicy rd

Love this idea! Like Regan, I have been wanting to get on the Protein Ball bandwagon ball too. This looks like a delicious place to start!

http://www.kumquatblog.com gretchen

i’m totally new to the “protein ball” idea… looks super yummy though, and i love your flavors and the fact that they’re gluten-free. what a guilt-free breakfast on the run!

http://www.WholeHealthRD.com Nicole @WholeHealthRD

I’ll have to pick your brain about protein powder. People ask me about it all the time, and I never know what brand to recommend or if they even need it! These look great for breakfast!

http://greenfieldnutrition.blogspot.com Emily

These look excellent. I have been looking for a good chocolate protein ball recipe. I cant wait to try these out. And i also love chocolate orange flavour…

http://www.mealmakeovermoms.com Meal Makeover Mom Janice

I think I have all these ingredients on hand so will try these – I hope my daughter likes them, Would be a great snack!

DK

Yay! Glad you like them. Nicole, you can really use any protein powder you like in these. I used hemp protein because I had it on hand. Most people prefer whey protein after a workout because it’s faster absorbed.

Marie Spano

What a brilliant concept. I’ve seen the store made ones but I will have to make my own. Very creative recipe!

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Specializing in plant-based nutrition, sports nutrition & food sensitivities, Alex is available for in-person & telephone consultations. She also works with companies to provide customized nutrition education and recipe development. About.